Bill Rawls made Brownsville history yesterday, becoming the city’s first African-American mayor. Rawls is the grandson of Al Rawls, the founder of Rawls Funeral System and Golden Circle Life Insurance, who, decades ago also made history as Haywood County’s first African-American entrepreneur.
Bill Rawls won by the largest margin in modern mayoral history, commanding 64% of the vote. Clearly crossing racial lines with his victory, Rawls gathered 1587 ballots compared to Mayor Jo Matherne’s 867.
Matherne was seeking a second term in office. Strong financial management and her plan for “Brownsville on the Move” marked her four years at Brownsville’s top spot. Matherne made history, too. She was Brownsville’s first female mayor.
Bill Rawls will take office in July.
